With all the talk surrounding lead in Milwaukee, the I-Team decided to go out and test both paint and water. Though water is the most commonly talked-about source, many experts consider paint to be an equal or greater concern. The I-Team's found that to be true as they tested homes around the City.
Home Inspector Jameel Dawan went with the I-Team to test homes near 51st and Center, 16th and National and in West Allis. Paint tested in both West Allis and on the Southside came back with high levels of lead, which Dawan recommended abatement for.
Near 51st and Center, Dawan noticed signs of lead paint, which include "alligator" cracks and peeling. None of the water came back above Wisconsin's threshold of 15 micrograms per liter, though both the water samples taken in Milwaukee had above trace amounts.
The I-Team connected one of the families to the Sixteenth Street health center because of their paint issues and water concerns. The center is going to help the family until the children have safe levels and the lead paint and other sources in the home are safe.
The I-Team tested homes near 51st and Center, 16th and National and in West Allis.
Have concerns? Here's who you can reach out to.
SIXTEENTH STREET HEALTH CENTER can help you test your home, fix any paint issues and can give you a free water filter. They work with you until your children no longer have concerning lead levels.
Want to get your home or children tested? Here are some options.
FREE TESTING OPTIONS- According to the Sixteenth Street Health Center, health insurance will usually cover the cost of a lead test at your child's doctor's office. If you do not have health insurance, here are some other options.
- Sixteenth Street Health Center
- MLK Heritage Health Center- free to WIC participants
CITY OF MILWAUKEE LAB- "Contact the laboratory at (414) 286-3526 (phone) or (414) 286-5098 (fax) for assistance with any questions regarding appropriate specimen collection and transport. Normal laboratory hours are 8:00 a.m. to 4:45p.m., Monday through Friday. Please call the lab in advance to arrange after-hours deliveries. For emergencies after hours please call the City Hall Operator at (414) 286-2150." Costs range from $19.95-$37.50
WISCONSIN CERTIFIED INSPECTORS/TESTERS- costs vary by individual.
WEST ALLIS LEAD PREVENTION - has certified inspectors who can check out your home for concerns